Powerful Listening. Powerful Influence. Work Better. Live Better. Love Better.: by Mastering the Art of Skillful Listening

by Tim Hast

Want to win friends and really influence people? This book was written for you. Listening is the most powerful tool for success in business and in life. So if it’s that important, why don’t we listen better? Because life moves way too fast, we’re busy, and we don’t know how. Discover what active listening is and what it is not. Learn four simple actions that will train your brain to listen, and see for yourself the difference these steps make in your life. People need to be heard. If you understand this simple principle you’re well on your way along the road to success. Nothing you can say will be nearly as important as what you need to hear the other person say. Practice skillful listening and discover the principle key to effective communication and having a powerful influence with others. Tim was trained as a psychotherapist. His specialty, working with couples. He discovered people got better when he quit trying to tell them what to do and simply focused on hearing their story and helped them listen to each other. He observed if he taught a couple to really listen to each other, their relationship improved. One couple saw how it improved their relationship and used those same skills with their teenagers. It worked. The husband, a CEO, used the same listening techniques in his office and found it really worked there as well! Skillful active listening works for everybody. If you read this book and begin to practice the four simple steps you will increase your odds of success in your career, have deeper richer relationships, and enjoy a more satisfying life.

224 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 7, 2013

Reviews

[Ashley Fuhr · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book, signed by the author, for my birthday last year. It was shortly after having a baby, so I've just gotten around to completing it. What an outstanding read! I was able to attend one of Tim's seminars prior to reading the book, and I still found each page captivating and insightful. Tim really breaks down the facets of listening and delivers them to you in easy to remember fragments. And, just in case it was a bit overwhelming or you don't know where to start, he has placed easy ways to start implementing the ideas at the end of each chapter. If we could all commit to slowly practice the ideas presented, the world would be a much better place. I look forward to practicing ARE listening in all areas of my life. I'd recommend this book to anyone. ESPECIALLY if you're interested in becoming a better listener.

I have been afforded the pleasure of getting to know Tim through my work. He is such a kind person, and it is neat to watch him live out the practices in his book. Tim will be the first to tell you he doesn't always get it right, but it's the commitment to keep trying that makes him outstanding at what he does. While I would have read the book if it were about dragons, lollipops, and butterflies, simply to support him, I always give an honest review and this is definitely an A+ in my book! If you need someone to coach your company, Tim is the guy to do it.

[Tracy Dixon · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was disappointed with this book. Although the material was good, there was so little storytelling that it came across as a textbook full of homework. I want to hear about practical application and real-life examples. It was hard for me to reach the end.

[Rachelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good book, really explains the mistakes people make when it comes to listening. Also gives advice on how to become a better listener and different exercises to do or information to remember at the end of each chapter. I would highly recommend this book.

[Jason Martin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pretty good reminder on being mindful, liked the principal of ARE listening..(ARE you listening? haha)

However, thought the book was a little long winded, could have been half of the length IMO. And, the author was a little over the top obsessed with God and the bible.

[Zack · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has truly changed the way I view listening.

I've heard people talk about "active listening" and I would always think that it meant to just pay attention more closely... Well, now I know I was wrong!

Everyone should read this book - it will benefit your personal life and your career.

[Rob DElena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good book. I enjoyed it very much!

A must very easy and engaging read! Very practical and beneficial in all aspects of life! Don't pass this one up!